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Fires raging across Los Angeles-area communities are continuing to rage out of control as gale-force winds whip up the flames and send embers flying. The Pacific Palisades fire is the worst at the moment, but another fire has broken out in Altadena to the east (near Pasadena) that is growing quickly. Golden State Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency, meaning the California National Guard can now be activated if needed, and assistance from the California Office of Emergency Services can be provided. 

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In the Palisades, there have been massive evacuations and thousands of acres burned:

More than 13,000 buildings and 26,000 people are in the evacuation zone, which has been labeled “under immediate threat,” according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

As of 9:20 p.m., nearly 3,000 acres had burned, according to Cal Fire. 

Earlier Tuesday: Mass Evacuations in California As Wind-Driven Wildfire Scorches Pacific Palisades

I live in LA, and although I am luckily not close to the fire zones, I can tell you that the winds are like nothing I’ve ever experienced here. My whole house is shaking like it’s an ongoing earthquake, and we keep hearing bangs as things fly around the yard. If I open my office door to the porch, it is quickly ripped out of my hands. Reports are that gusts in my area are up to 70 MPH. A huge tree came down a couple of blocks from us, taking down a power pole with it, and many traffic lights are non-operational. The power has flickered many times today, and while we’re lucky enough that it’s still on, many in the area—including relatives who are now staying with us—are not so lucky.

But the people who are being affected by the fires unfortunately have it much, much worse:

The City of Santa Monica has ordered evacuations:

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The images and videos are staggering. Earlier Tuesday, trapped residents abandoned their cars in the Palisades and firefighters had to simply bulldoze them out of the way to gain access to the fire:

This is an absolutely terrifying post about folks trapped in their house as flames surround them. Warning: Video may be disturbing. I’m sharing because reports are they all were able to get out.

Actor Chris Pratt rightfully thanked the firefighters:

Thank you to the brave firefighters and first responders who are working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and wildlife as they battle fast-moving wildfire fueled by fierce winds. You are true heroes, and we are endlessly grateful for your sacrifice and courage.

Let’s all come together to support one another during this tough time. ❤️ #ThankYouFirstResponders

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A high wind warning remains in effect in the area until 6 pm PST Wednesday, so this disaster is far from over. I lived through the ’94 Northridge quake here, where it felt like we were in a disaster movie, and the same feeling has descended over the region tonight. Pray for the people of LA.

Remembering the Northridge Quake 30 Years Later, and How the Big Shake Up May Have Led to My Marriage

RedState will continue to bring you updates about this tragic situation.